Wednesday, Sep 9, 2020
State coronavirus guidelines continue to impact repeatedly revised plans
by Adam Grybowski
Citing state guidelines limiting large indoor gatherings, Rider announced on Aug. 27 that Commencement ceremonies honoring the Class of 2020 will be postponed until 2021.
Normally held annually in May, the ceremonies were originally postponed because of the coronavirus outbreak and rescheduled for this fall.
The Lawrenceville ceremonies scheduled for November 1, which would have coincided with Family Weekend/Homecoming, and the Westminster Choir College ceremony scheduled for Dec. 12, which would have coincided with Readings and Carols, will now take place in mid-May 2021.
Student leaders from the Class of 2020 have informed Rider's plans since last spring, including the most recent changes. Class of 2020 and Class of 2021 Lawrenceville Commencement ceremonies will be held separately on the weekend of May 15 and 16, 2021. A combined Class of 2020 and Class of 2021 Westminster Choir College Commencement ceremony will be held on May 14, 2021.
Both Family Weekend/Homecoming and Readings and Carols will be offered virtually this year.
“We heard this loud and clear from your class leadership — the importance of being celebrated for your unique experiences as the Class of 2020, with your family and friends, and in the style that all proud members of the Rider and Westminster Choir College communities have come to expect,” Rider President Gregory Dell’Omo wrote to students.
Dell’Omo acknowledged the disappointment that would follow the rescheduling.
“This pandemic has had a profound impact on your lives and the lives of so many across our country and the world,” he said. “But know this: We are doing all we can to ensure that you are celebrated for the significant milestone you have each achieved while also ensuring your safety and that of your families.”
More detailed information regarding Commencement ceremony location, dates and times will be available at www.rider.edu/commencement.